My hands shake as I set up the makeshift altar in the center of my dorm room, following the instructions read aloud by a guard from a textbook. Mr. Ledger sits on the edge of Ariah’s bed, his expression tight as he watches me attempt one method after another to summon his daughter.
I’ve already tried several techniques, including a deck of tarot cards, a bowl of water, and a mirror—none of which have worked.
I suck in a deep breath, watching the flickering candles cast long shadows on the walls. As I expel my breath, the dark shapes sway wildly, and I look carefully among them, hoping to see a girl my age standing there. No such luck, of course.
“Spirit of Sally, I summon you. Hear my call and show yourself.” I try to ignore the expectant eyes on me as my finger presses down on the plan
